Author: Muriel Barbery
Source: Ali's book club choice
Days to read: 8
Now this was a challenging book but well worth a read. It is evident
that the author, Muriel Barbery is familiar with Philosophy!
The book has two different voices. The first is a middle-aged concierge
named Renée who suppresses her intellect and interests in order to fit into the
stereotype of a simple, lazy and uneducated concierge. The second voice is
Paloma, a 12-year-old genius who is irritated by everything and everyone in the
world until she meets Renée. When the new Japanese tenant Ozu moves into the
prestigious building, both Renee and Paloma are intrigued to find another
individual they consider an equal.
Through joint interests and enjoying each other’s company, Paloma is finally
able to see some good in the world and Renee’s spirit is awakened by her new
friend Ozu who sees and knows her for the person she is.
We had a really good discussion about this book at our last meeting and
the majority of us really enjoyed the book. Both characters hide their true
thoughts and feelings and essence of who they are to the outside world. Fortunately,
Paloma is young and is able to learn from Renee and appreciate things in life.
There was some disagreement regarding the end of the book. Some people
were left sad and disappointed while others felt it came full circle and were
satisfied. I hover somewhere in between these opinions. Without giving too much
away, a traumatic event occurs that does evoke sad feelings however I felt that
this event was only the closing to a bigger story and that lessons were learned
and new and wonderful experiences were had and recognized.
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